As the cost of living remains high, NFU Mutual is reminding individuals about the benefits of paying for protection plans, and has re-released an old 1930's film to illustrate the consequences of leaving your family's financial future to chance.

Consumer studies show people are more likely to have insurance to protect cars and possessions than their health and life. However, money is the last thing a spouse or dependant should have to worry about in the event of the unexpected.

With the cost of living rising at above 3% for the seventh month in a row, and an total average household spend of £24,492*, many families would struggle to meet their basic financial needs if the main breadwinner was injured, fell ill or suddenly passed away.

Commenting on the importance of life protection, Paul Richardson, insurance specialist at NFU Mutual, said: "If asked, most people would probably rank their health and life as top priority, but surprisingly many risk leaving their families unprotected financially by not having some sort of protection plan in place.

"Reasons for not having a protection plan in place vary. Some people still think that life insurance or critical illness cover is too expensive, some believe the State will look after them, others remain apathetic, but the majority believe nothing will happen to them. Life cover doesn't have to break the bank and it's not worth taking short cuts when protecting your family." 

NFU Mutual offers a range of protection plans to help give families financial peace of mind. If accepted on standard terms, a 35 year old non-smoking female could get Level Temporary Assurance offering £100,000 of cover over 25 years from as little as £10 a month. Likewise a 35 year old non-smoking male could help secure his family's financial future from just £11.37.

As part of its centenary celebrations, the UK's leading rural insurer NFU Mutual has restored one of its original promotional videos to help highlight the peace of mind life insurance can bring should the unexpected occur. 

The film "If" tells the story of a young farming couple starting married life. The man dreams he is shot in an accident forcing his young widow to sell up and live in poverty. On waking he calls in NFU Mutual and takes out life insurance.

Richardson added: "Those that live in the countryside are pretty good at insuring their businesses, vehicles, machinery, tools and working animals, but many still view life insurance as less of a priority. This is a risky strategy especially for those who rely on their physical health to do their job." 

NFU Mutual understands the insurance needs of those who live and work in the countryside. One hundred years on, it has stayed true to its roots - providing members with extensive insurance cover, at a fair price with a first class service, helping them make the most of their money.

NFU Mutual Financial Consultants advise on NFU Mutual products and services and in special circumstances those of other providers.